109 Readability
The ease with which text can be understood, based on the complexity of words and sentences.
• Readability is one of the most overlooked and important aspects of design.
• Readability is determined by factors such as word length, word commonality, sentence length, clauses per sentence, and syllables per sentence.
• Readability can be improved by omitting needless words and punctuation, avoiding acronyms and jargon, keeping sentence length appropriate for the intended audience, and using active voice.
• When targeting a specific reading level, consider readability formulas designed for this purpose.
• Consider readability when creating designs that involve narrative text. Ensure that the reading level is audience appropriate. Strive to express complex concepts in simple ways, using plain language.
See Also Inverted Pyramid • KISS • Stickiness • Storytelling
